Die Hard Sports Fan

It’s tough to watch this ‘08 Mets team.  After Pelfrey pitches the game of his life, they give it away and need Beltran to save the day.  Shame on Willie for not allowing Big Pelf to try to get his first complete game shutout.  How is young pitcher supposed to build up his resume, and confidence, when the manager pulls him after the best outing in his career?  When else is he supposed to get a complete game shutout?  Stuff like that may make an inconsistent, young pitcher more confident.  That confidence may pay off in the long run.  As for today, Santana pitched seven scoreless innings before handing it over to the Bullpen who blew it…again.  What is wrong with Wagner?  Three straight blown saves?  The Bullpen was the biggest problem the team had in ‘07.  The Bullpen was dominant until July, and then it was downhill from there.  It just kept getting worse and worse until they were eliminated, and I saw it coming.  I knew that even if they made the Playoffs that they weren’t going to do so well because the Bullpen was giving up way too many games.  It is the same thing in ‘08 because it’s the same cast of characters.  Sanchez returned, but I thought he would’ve been better than he has been so far.  Omar brought in Wise who hasn’t been anything special.  Otherwise, it’s the same people who couldn’t get it done in ‘07 so why would they be able to do it in ‘08?

Mets.com:

Mets suffer tough loss to D-backs - Anthony DiComo summarized today’s game between the Diamondbacks and the Mets.

Santana watches bullpen falter - Ain’t that the truth?

Return trip to DL possible for Alou - Anthony DiComo reported that Moises Alou had an MRI on Wednesday, and it revealed aggravation of a strained left calf.  Alou said, ”I think that the DL is a possibility. Again.”

Day at Shea remains affordable

Beltran’s blast ends Mets’ long night - Anthony DiComo summarized last night’s Diamondbacks-Mets game.

Santana set to shake off ailing shoulder - Samantha Newman put together a pregame analysis for today’s game between the Diamondbacks and the Mets.

Return shortlived for ailing Alou - Alou explained that the soreness in his left calf would once again take him out of the Mets’ lineup less than 24 hours after his return from the disabled list.  It really is a shame that he cannot stay healthy.

Mets add Aguila to outfield mix - Anthony DiComo reported that the Mets called up a hot-hitting prospect, Chris Aguila, to offset the losses of Church and Alou.

Newsday:

Wagner blows another save as Mets fall to D-Backs - Mark Herrmann summarized today’s game between the D-Backs and the Mets.

SNY talks fairly, quietly about Mets

Beltran’s blast in 13th saves Mets’ Wagner - Mark Herrmann wrote up a game summary for last night’s D-Backs-Mets game.

Alou ‘very embarrassed’ by latest calf injury

Turmoil doesn’t mean that Willie isn’t a winner - Shaun Powell wrote this about Willie Randolph, “It’s not that he forgot how to manage or suddenly became dumb. His team simply quit meeting the expectations of the fans, ownership, themselves and Randolph’s, and fair or not, that usually comes back to the manager.”

Marlon came up with ‘62′ as morale booster - Mark Herrmann informed us about how Marlon Anderson “came up with the magic number of 62 wins in the final 100 games, wrote it down and passed it out to teammates at the end of a club Players Association meeting Tuesday.”  I’m loving the creativity Marlon.  I just hope the Mets achieve the goal he set.  Somebody really has to do something.

New York Daily News:

Billy Wagner blows 3rd straight save in Mets’ loss to Diamondbacks - The AP summarized today’s game between the D-Backs and the Mets.

Shaky relief pitching might be start of Mets’ problems - That is the problem, and it began in July of ‘07.

Carlos Beltran’s homer wins it in 13th for Mets, bails out Billy Wagner - Adam Rubin wrote up a game summary for last night’s game between the Diamondbacks and the Mets.

Mets have sympathy for Ron Santo and 1969 Cubs - Anthony McCarron sees similarities between the ‘70 Cubs and the ‘08 Mets.

Ailing Moises Alou’s leg and pride hurting because of injury

Billy Wagner blows game in ninth, win for Mike Pelfrey

Marlon Anderson gets into the flow with inspiration at players-only meeting

New York Post:

BELTRAN BLAST BAILS OUT BILLY - Mark Hale summarized last night’s Diamondbacks-Mets game.

MOISES BACK ON SIDELINE

MINAYA IS MAKING SAME OLD MISTAKES - Great article here by Joel Sherman.  It’s the first article in a long time that I’ve seen putting some blame on Omar Minaya.  Willie takes all of the heat which isn’t right.  They are a tandem.  I would love to see the press go at each of them equally.

IMPRESSIVE PELFREY ROBBED OF WIN

ALOU BACK ON BENCH, AGAIN

STRAW: METS CAN’T HANDLE PRESSURE OF NEW YORK - Darryl Strawberry believes that, “The talent is there with this group, no question. The curiosity is, how much do they want it? Everyone is puzzled, including former players. There’s a lot of questions about if it’s going to happen for them.”

New York Times:

Stuck in His Team’s Undertow, Santana Sees Another Win Slip Away - Ben Shpigel summarized today’s game between the Diamondbacks and the Mets.

Beltrán Saves the Mets, as Wagner Fails Again - Joe LaPointe wrote up a game summary for last night’s D-Backs-Mets game.

Mets’ Alou Is Left Discouraged After Hurting His Calf Again

The Star-Ledger:

Final: D-Backs 5, Mets 4 - Jeremy Cothran wrote up a game summary for today’s game between the D-Backs and the Mets.

Game 65: Diamondbacks at Mets - Jeremy Cothran provided the lineup for today’s game between the Diamondbacks and the Mets.

Beltran’s HR bails out Wagner

Pelfrey gets dose of confidence - And he would’ve built up more confidence if Willie let him get 3 more outs.

Blame players for state of Mets

Beltran delivers Mets victory in 13 - Colin Stephenson summarized last night’s D-Backs-Mets game.

Anything to help out - Colin Stephenson asked Scott Schoeneweis why he helped out the grounds crew putting the tarp on the infield.

Share This

So the Metsies are on a 5-game losing streak, and who knows when it’s going to end.  Even when they put up 5 runs in the first two innings, they can’t seal the deal.  They have a whole bunch of issues.  The media and the fans have pointed them out since game one.  The issues are obvious to us, but it’s the organization that needs to shake things up before it’s too late or it’s going to be a very long season.

Mets.com:

Mets fall to D-backs after delay - Anthony DiComo summarized last night’s game between the Diamondbacks and the Mets.

Randolph hopes to ‘return the favor’ - Jon Blau put together a pregame analysis for tonight’s game between the Diamondbacks and the Mets.

Mets follow doctors’ orders with Church - Anthony DiComo reported that Ryan Church won’t return from DL until neurologist clears him.

Optimistic Alou returns to Mets’ lineup

Newsday:

Mets blow 5-1 lead against Arizona- Roderick Boone summarized last night’s Diamondbacks-Mets game.

It’s time to restart the Willie watch

Alou itching to help, finally gets activated

New York Daily News:

Despite meeting, Mets blow lead and fall to Diamondbacks 9-5 at Shea - Roger Rubin wrote up a game summary for last night’s game between the Diamondbacks and the Mets.

Despite defeat to Diamondbacks, Mets might see magic in numbers

Met bullpen racked for six runs in four innings vs. Diamondbacks - The Bullpen shouldn’t even pitch four innings.

Moises Alou gets hit, then sits

New York Post:

‘PEN GIVES LEAD D’BACK TO ‘ZONA - Mark Hale summarized last night’s D-Backs-Mets game.

CHURCH ON DL, FINALLY

AMAZIN’S HAVE HEAD IN CLOUDS

NO JOKE! ‘HEALTHY’ ALOU EYES PLAYOFFS

New York Times:

Alou Is Back, Church Is on the D.L. and the Mets Stagger On

Mets’ Bullpen to the Rescue in Delay

The Star-Ledger:

He just can’t go any Mo - Jeremy Cothran provided the lineup for tonight’s game between the Diamondbacks and the Mets.

Mets bullpen falters as skid hits five

Alou, Anderson back from DL

Virginia has its share of premium baseball players

Diamondbacks batter Mets, 9-5 - Colin Stephenson summarized last night’s game between the D-Backs and the Mets.

Here come the grounds crew

Rain, rain go away

Return of Moises

Share This

The Amazin’s have completed the first 62 games of their season and have a 30-32 record.  Their GM and Manager stated that their record is ‘unacceptable’.  Their best everyday player of ‘08, Church, was just placed on the 15-day DL.  The entire team is underperforming, according to the team.  Where will the Mets end up after the final 100 games?

The Mets begin a six-game homestand against the D-Backs tonight.  Here’s a look at the probable pitching matchups:

• 06/10/2008 - Micah Owings (6-4) - John Maine (6-4)
• 06/11/2008 - Brandon Webb (11-2) - Mike Pelfrey (2-6)
• 06/12/2008 - Dan Haren (6-4) - Johan Santana (7-4)

Mets.com:

Mets look for boost in All-Star balloting - Marty Noble pointed out that there are not any Mets at the top of their respective position for the All-Star balloting.

Church headed to DL with concussion - Jon Blau reported that Ryan Church, “will be placed on the 15-day disabled list before Tuesday’s game because of lingering effects from a concussion suffered May 20 in Atlanta.”  This was expected and should of been done earlier.

Mailbag: Tough to live up to ‘great’ billing - Marty Noble answers Mets fans’ questions.

Mets players raise money on off-day - Jon Blau told us what the Mets did on their off day yesterday, “On Monday, instead of buttoning up their uniforms, the Mets were flashing fashionable suit jackets at the Richards clothing store in Greenwich, Conn., schmoozing with fans and autograph seekers alike. They spent their one day away from the diamond raising money for charity at the Mets Foundation’s “Teammates in the Community” fund-raiser sponsored by NetJets.”

King of Queens (Video) - Carlos Delgado has found his groove after a slow start to ‘08.

Newsday:

Are the Mets a money team or not? - Willie Randolph said, “I think we’re a good team, but it’s always been ridiculous that people look at payroll. I’ve been on many teams where that doesn’t wash. People have to produce. Look at Seattle this year or Detroit. Let’s be real. You have to play. Salary has nothing to do with it. Expectations might be higher by fans and the media, but you have to play the game, do your job, execute. That’s how you justify payroll. It doesn’t mean it’s automatic.

Minaya concerned about Mets ‘unacceptable’ record - Omar Minaya said, “Five hundred is not acceptable because we are better than that.”  Roderick Boone wrote, “Minaya said he’s working the phone every day, trying to see if players who could help are available. He’s considered changing the makeup of the 25-man roster but said nothing out there at the moment makes sense. With five weeks left before the All-Star break, few if any clubs are ready to give up and trade a valuable commodity.”  It is about time Omar sees that there is an issue because you cannot solve it if you don’t.  It’s like the first step of AA.

New York Daily News:

With aging players, barren farm system, Omar Minaya’s rule a reign of error - Adam Rubin is calling Minaya’s rule an ‘error’.  That seems way too strong because the same paper said that about Isiah Thomas.  The Mets are playing .500 ball while the Knicks were nowhere near that.  Both had high payrolls while the results are different.  Minaya needs to get a little bit more credit than Isiah.

Series Preview: Mets vs. D-backs

Ryan Church to DL as Mets get pair back

Omar Minaya, Willie Randolph stay upbeat about Mets - Newsday put a negative spin on this topic while the New York Daily News put a positive spin on the topic, but the quote is the same.

New York Post:

AMAZIN’LY AVERAGE - Bart Hubbuch wrote, “After forking over a whole lot of millions in the offseason, the Wilpons are getting a whole lot of mediocrity in return.”  Isn’t that the truth?

THIS TEAM’S GOING NOWHERE!

CHURCH HEADING TO DISABLED LIST

New York Times:

Mets’ Debt Comes Due in 100 Games

Mets’ Record Is ‘Not Acceptable’ to Minaya or Randolph

The Star-Ledger:

Mets’ draft pick in fight (kind of)

Minaya says Mets’ losing record ‘not acceptable’

Share This

The Mets have two games left with the Padres just to even up the series.  At best, they can come home from California with a 4-3 record.  All of us Mets fans are waiting for whatever it is that is going to ignite this team.  Each time we see signs, we think all is right.  It hasn’t been the case yet because they are struggling against last place teams.  Since the Mets have been playing .500 for so long, there’s no reason to assume that it’s going to get better except for my own hope.  After last season, I thought that this season didn’t even begin until they locked up the division.  I thought that they would pick up where they left off, in September but sealing the deal.  Now, I just hope they get to October.

Mets.com:

Santana hurt as Mets suffer tough loss - Marty Noble summarized last night’s game between the Mets and the Padres.  He also noted that Johan Santana suffered a bruised left shoulder when he was struck by a pitch in the sixth inning.

After Johan injury, Mets aim to regroup - Marty Noble wrote up a pregame analysis for tonight’s game between the Mets and the Padres.

Church doesn’t play against Padres

Holes filled by departed blue chippers - Jon Blau pointed out that the Mets replenished their farm system by going after collegiate prospects rather than high school prospects.

Meeting with Randolph benefits Reyes - After a routine ball bounced through the legs of Jose Reyes in the third inning of Wednesday’s game in San Francisco, Willie Randolph spoke with Reyes about it Thursday before the Mets played their first game of their four-game series against the Padres.  Willie stated that “Footwork … mechanics … rhythm.” was the message, and Marty Noble believes that it’s paying off on Reyes.

Newsday:

More frustration for Mets in 2-1 loss - David Lennon summarized last night’s Mets-Padres game.

Randolph hasn’t lost faith in Perez - yet - Willie said this about Oliver Perez, “I told him how disappointed I was in his performance and to get ready for the next one.”

Mets’ Church upset about benching Friday night

THIS DAY AT THE OLD BALLPARK - Newsday lets us know what took place at Shea Stadium and Yankee Stadium on June 7 of a year in the past.

New York Daily News:

Johan Santana’s gaffe aids Padres rally in 2-1 Mets loss - Adam Rubin wrote up a game summary about last night’s game between the Mets and the Padres.

Heath Bell rings ‘em up - Adam Rubin lets you know how former Met, Heath Bell, is doing.

Ryan Church out of the lineup again

New York Post:

AMAZIN’ BATS BETRAY JOHAN

TOP PICK ALREADY LOVES NY - Since the Mets drafted Ike Davis, who is the son of former Yankee Ron Davis, Ike had this to say when asked about New York, “He just said they have the best fans and it’s a blast because every game is live and die with them. He loved it, and I’m looking forward to it, too.”

New York Times:

Mistakes Mar Close Game as Mets Slip Back to .500 - Ben Shpigel summarized last night’s Mets-Padres game.

Pelfrey Throws More Pitches, Learning More

The Star-Ledger:

Mets can’t muster much, Santana falls to Padres

Church sits as playing time is monitored

Final: Padres 2, Mets 1 - Jeremy Cothran summarized last night’s game between the Mets and the Padres.

Inconsistent Perez driving Mets mad

Share This

The Mets drafted eight players yesterday in the 2008 MLB Draft.  Here they are, and the ones with a link include a Scouting Report from MLB.com.  The others do not have a Scouting Report.  You can check out a description about each player by clicking, here.

1. Isaac Davis (1B) - Arizona State University
2. David Havens (SS) - University of South Carolina Columbia
3. Bradley Holt (RHP) - UNC Wilmington
4. Javier Rodriguez (OF) - Puerto Rico BB Academy HS
5. Kirk Nieuwenhuis (CF) - Azusa Pacific University
6. Sean Ratliff (CF) - Stanford University
7. Charles Doyle (C) - Coastal Carolina University
8. Joshua Satin (2B) - UC Berkeley

Mets.com:

Schoeneweis falters against Padres - Marty Noble summarized last night’s game between the Mets and the Padres.

Mets snag college bats Davis, Havens - Anthony DiComo covered yesterday’s MLB Draft and discusses the players that the Mets drafted.

Castillo looks to feast on Wolf - Marty Noble wrote up a pregame analysis for tonight’s game between the Mets and the Padres.  The title is eye popping, but it didn’t make sense to me because Castillo doesn’t feast on anybody.  However, Noble wrote that, “Castillo seemingly turns into Chase Utley at the sight of Wolf.”

Wagner looks up to Hoffman - Marty Noble pointed out that Billy Wagner has nothing but praise for Trevor Hoffman.

Mets call up Nuñez to fill infield role - Marty Noble reported that, “The Mets purchased the contract of veteran infielder Abraham Nuñez from their Triple-A New Orleans affiliate on Thursday and optioned infielder-outfielder Nick Evans back to their Binghamton affiliate in the Double-A Eastern League.”  Evans did a pretty good job while he was up here, but it will be good for the Mets to keep trying to bring up some young guys who have something to prove and see who gels with the team.

Newsday:

Walkoff HBP helps Padres defeat Mets, 2-1 - David Lennon summarized last night’s Mets-Padres game.

Mets call up Nuñez for infield depth; Evans down

Mets regulars like Wright have little time to rest

MLB DRAFT: Mets’ top picks in hurry to sign - Ken Davidoff explained why the top two Draft picks, first baseman Ike Davis from Arizona State and shortstop Reese Havens from South Carolina, want to sign with the Mets quickly.

THIS DAY AT THE OLD BALLPARK - Newsday lets us know what took place at Shea Stadium and Yankee Stadium on June 6 of a year in the past.

New York Daily News:

Mets lose 2-1 to Padres, Schoeneweis gives up run with bases loaded - Adam Rubin wrote a game summary for last night’s game between the Mets and the Padres.

Mets select Ike Davis, son of a Yankee Ron Davis, in MLB draft

Abraham Nunez new infielder; Nick Evans demoted

New York Post:

A REAL PLUNKER - Bart Hubbuch covered how Scott Schoeneweis imploded in the 9th inning of last night’s game.

WILLIE MULLS RESTING WRIGHT

New York Times:

Pelfrey Is Solid, but Mets Still Lose - Ben Shpigel summarized last night’s Mets-Padres game.

The Mets Choose Power With Top 2 Draft Picks

The Star-Ledger:

Hit by pitch sends Mets to loss

Evans sent back to Double A

Mets get what they want in draft

Final: Padres 2, Mets 1 - Jeremy Cothran summarized last night’s game between the Mets and the Padres.

Game 59: Mets at Padres - Jeremy Cothran provided the lineup for last night’s Mets-Padres game.

Mets take Havens with second first-rounder

Mets select Davis with No. 1 pick

Share This

What a difference a day makes.  One night after Ollie did his Glavine impersonation, Pedro made his first start in two months and was pretty effective.  Martinez had good command and got his fastball up into the 90s.  And look at all of the buzz about Petey below.  Dozens of articles were written by the media.  The Star-Ledger put out an inning-by-inning breakdown of his first game back.  This guy barely pitches anymore, but he gets a ton of hype.  If he pitches a little less, which is not at all, then he can replace Mr. Met as the official mascot.

Mets.com:

Bats help lift Pedro in return - Marty Noble summarized last night’s game between the Mets and the Giants.

Schedule provides Mets opportunity - Marty Noble put together a pregame analysis for today’s Mets-Giants game.

Castro catches Pedro’s return

Gnats have five-homer first inning - Rob Jemella pointed out that the Savannah Sand Gnats cranked five homers in a seven-run opening frame.

Newsday:

Pedro leads Mets to 9-6 against Giants - David Lennon also summarized last night’s game between the Mets and the Giants.

Alou says return to Mets in this trip is ‘50-50′

THIS DAY AT THE OLD BALLPARK - Newsday lets us know what took place at Shea Stadium and Yankee Stadium on June 4 of a year in the past.

METS: Pedro brings buzz

New York Daily News:

Pedro Martinez goes six innings in return as Mets beat Giants, 9-6 - Adam Rubin wrote up a game summary for last night’s Mets-Giants game.

Pedro happy to get his feet wet - Adam Rubin put together a great analysis of Pedro’s return last night.

Despite denials, it looks like Brian Schneider is caught in a platoon

John Smoltz to have season-ending shoulder surgery - The AP reported that John Smoltz will have season-ending shoulder surgery.  He hopes to return in 2009, but it may be the end of his career.  As much as I hate watching the Mets face Smoltz, the guy has been the best pitcher in the Majors for about two decades.  Hopefully he recovers and gets to pitch again.  I always thought he was a classy guy.

New York Post:

PISTOL PETEY

THIS TIME, SCOTT’S NO RELIEF - Bart Hubbuch discussed how Scott Schoeneweis got knocked around in the ninth inning last night.

PELFREY GRATEFUL METS STICKING WITH HIM - Mike Pelfrey stated, “I was prepared mentally for whatever they wanted me to do. If that meant going to New Orleans or the bullpen, it would have been nothing new. To be able to stay in the rotation is a great feeling. I want to show them they made the right decision.”  Going into the season, I wanted him to be in the rotation over El Duque because I wanted to know how good or bad he really is if he goes into the season knowing he’s a starter rather than a fillin for somebody on the DL like in years past.  Now, it is obvious that he’s just not that good.  The Mets don’t have many short term options so we’ll have to see what Omar does in the upcoming months.

New York Times:

Martínez Gives Mets Lift, and Some Life - Ben Shpigel summarized last night’s game between the Mets and the Giants.

Last Season’s Success Hard to Duplicate for Mets’ Pérez - Oh yes it is.  I hope that the Mets bring Ollie in front of the arbitrators so they can explain how poorly he has performed after the first two months of the season and get a partial refund.

The Star-Ledger:

Pedro delivers quality start

Schneider, Castro give Randolph Catch-2 situation

Pedro 6th inning

Pedro 5th inning

Pedro 4th Inning

Pedro 3rd Inning

Pedro 2nd Inning

Pedro 1st Inning

Share This

Die Hard Mets Fan would like to tip our cap to Johan Santana for winning his 100th game.  A lot of pitchers get to 100 wins, but I’m curious to see where he ends up when it’s all said and done.

The Mets had a succesful homestand, and now they headed back to Cali to take on the Giants.  Here’s the probable pitching matchups:

• 06/02/2008 - Oliver Perez (4-3) - Jonathan Sanchez (3-3)
• 06/03/2008 - Pedro Martinez (0-0) - Barry Zito (1-8)
• 06/04/2008 - John Maine (5-4) - Matt Cain (2-3)

Mets.com:

Staked to big lead, Johan wins No. 100 - Anthony DiComo summarized last night’s game between the Dodgers and the Mets.  DiComo also noted that Johan Santana won his 100th game.  Congrats to Johan.

No rest for weary Mets - Jon Blau put together a pregame analysis for tonight’s game between the Mets and the Giants.

Newsday:

Church helps Mets beat Dodgers in return - Anthony Rieber also summarized last night’s Dodgers-Mets game.

Now is perfect time for Mets to keep on winning

Healthy Church hits the ground running

Mets’ Randolph: Split-stadium doubleheader ‘fun’

Shea hey, Torre the toast of the town

New York Daily News:

Mets hammer Dodgers behind third-inning homers and Johan Santana - Peter Botte wrote a game summary for last night’s game between the Dodgers and the Mets.

With signs of swagger back, it’s no time for Mets to Coast

Ryan Church returns to Mets lineup with clear head and homer

Johan Santana, now a Shea favorite, savors 100th win - Santana had this to say about reaching 100 wins, “It always feels good. It’s a great feeling, I feel I still have a ways to go, but it is definitely an honor to win 100 in this level and hopefully there are more to come. It’s good to accomplish these kinds of milestones, but I know I still have a ways to go.”

Willie Randolph sees 2-borough day in June to make-up Yankee game

New York Post:

METS CONTINUE AN AMAZIN’ RECOVERY

NO DOUBT, RED-HOT REYES STILL HAS ‘IT’

CHURCH BLASTS HR IN RETURN

WITH PEDRO BACK, PELFREY OR VARGAS LIKELY MINORS-BOUND

New York Times:

The Comforts of Home - Joe LaPointe summarized last night’s game between the Dodgers and the Mets.

Church Back in Lineup With a Smile

The Star-Ledger:

Game 56: Mets at Giants - Jeremy Cothran provided the lineup for tonight’s Mets-Giants game.

Postgame musings

Santana, Mets shut down Dodgers

Healthy Church returns with a bang

Mets win, Santana gets No. 100

Share This

It is June 1, so the Metropolitans are in a new calendar month.  The Mets are 27-27 right now, so the Mets would be 81-81 if you prorate it over the course of the season.  This is worse than at the end of April when they were on pace to get 87 wins.  They haven’t hit their stride yet, as Willie would say.  The good news is that they are coming off of a productive week where they won 4 out of 5 games.  Will this hot streak carry over to June?  And for how long?

Mets.com:

Church set to resume productive role - Anthony DiComo reported that Ryan Church returns after suffering his second concussion in three months.

Tatis, Mets turn fortune around - Anthony DiComo summarized yesterday’s game between the Dodgers and the Mets.

Reyes rebounds from early slump - Samantha Newman put together a pregame analysis for tonight’s game between the Dodgers and the Mets.

Pelfrey shakes off pressure at Shea

Castillo rests injured left leg - Anthony DiComo reported that the Doctors called Luis Castillo’s ’sore knee’ a strained hip flexor.

Injured Wise to seek second opinion - Jon Blau stated that Matt Wise wants to confirm the rotator cuff tendinitis diagnosis.

Newsday:

Mets rally in 8th, beat Dodgers on Tatis’ hit

Pelfrey sharp, but is it enough to stay a Met?

Peering over the .500 hump

Beltran’s big blast wakes up Mets

Beltran, Tatis rally Mets to 3-2 win over Dodgers - Mark Herrmann also summarized yesterday’s Dodgers-Mets game.

New York Daily News:

Carlos Beltran, Fernando Tatis spark comeback as Mets beat Dodgers - Adam Rubin wrote up a game summary for yesterday’s game between the Dodgers and the Mets.

Avoiding case of the Willies

Fernando Tatis is marvelous once again

Unlike old days, MLB teams hold fire on managers like Willie Randolph

Every time Gary Carter opens his mouth, he hurts his own cause

Mike Pelfrey throws curve into Met plans with Saturday’s performance

Ryan Church, Luis Castillo set for returns Sunday night

New York Post:

ANOTHER AMAZIN’ RALLY AT SHEA - Mike Puma summarized yesterday’s Dodgers-Mets game.

CASTILLO PINING TO PLAY

THE WAY TO ‘BELT’ BROXTON

25 BEST MOMENTS AT SHEA: NO. 17

PEDRO MUST DELIVER MORE THAN LAUGHS

MAJOR OBSTACLE - Kevin Kernan explains why it is hard for Wally Backman to find a job in the Majors.

New York Times:

Tatis Plays the Star in Another Comeback - Ben Shpigel summarized yesterday’s Dodgers-Mets game.

For Mets, Tatis’s Timing Is Perfect

The Star-Ledger:

Mets may be turning a corner

Church on Sunday - Colin Stephenson provided the lineup for tonight’s game between the Dodgers and the Mets.

Some extra postgame quotes from the Mets’ clubhouse

Another Amazin comeback

Pelfrey makes his case to stay in rotation

Share This

It started pouring outside so who knows if today’s game will take place.  It starts at 3:55 p.m., but the weather forecast is calling for heavy rain according to Evan on WFAN.  It just started coming down about thirty minutes ago.  Since the Mets are playing on Sunday Night Baseball tomorrow, it would be relatively easy for them to reschedule the game early tomorrow.  Or they can go into a rain delay and wait for a window.

Mets.com:

Mets’ streak over after bullpen falters - Anthony DiComo summarized last night’s game between the Dodgers and the Mets.

Pelfrey hoping to make statement - Jon Blau put together a pregame analysis for today’s game between the Dodgers and the Mets.

Castillo day-to-day after injuring hip

Church feels good after pregame warmup - Samantha Newman pointed out that Ryan Church is waiting for doctor’s clearance before returning.

Pedro makes long-awaited return - Anthony DiComo reported that Pedro Martinez, “rejoined the Mets on Friday and is officially set to come off the disabled list and start against the Giants on Tuesday.”

Newsday:

L. A. routs Heilman in eighth as Mets lose - Roderick Boone also summarized last night’s Dodgers-Mets game.

Revved-up Pedro: ‘We owe something to fans’

Church says he’s ready; team will be cautious

New York Daily News:

Russell Martin gets four hits as Dodgers snap Mets’ win streak - Adam Rubin wrote up a game summary for last night’s game between the Dodgers and the Mets.

Pedro Martinez: We owe fans for ‘07

Mike Pelfrey can make pitch to stay - Andy Martino believes that Mike Pelfrey may be pitching for his job today.

 Ryan Church on Sunday? Maybe so

New York Post:

ANOTHER HEIL OF A MESS FOR METS - Bart Hubbuch walks us through another choke by Aaron Heilman last night.

TORRE FAMILIAR WITH WILLIE’S TURMOIL

CASTILLO MAY LAND ON DL

BAD CALL CAN’T BE DODGED - Brian Costello described the bad call by first-base umpire Tim Welke who called Juan Pierre safe in the eigth inning.  This was the beginning of a 5-run inning for the Dodgers.  Welke had this to say about the play,

After watching the replay three times I know why I called him safe. In my judgment his heel was on the bag before Delgado caught the ball. I know his toe is in the air and that makes it look as though he hasn’t reached the bag but I know why I called him safe.

PEDRO: ‘GREAT’ DAYS ARE AHEAD

New York Times:

Mets Give Their Fans Reasons to Boo - Joshua Robinson summarized last night’s Dodgers-Mets game.

Martínez Is Back in Mets’ Dugout, Bringing His Upbeat Attitude With Him

Church Says He Does Not Regret Helping Out Mets

The Star-Ledger:

Today’s Lineup…

Good vibes turn sour for Mets

Pedro ready to provide a lift

Mets winning streak ends; Dodgers win, 9-5 - Colin Stephenson also wrote up a game summary for last night’s game between the Dodgers and the Mets.

Uh-oh - During last night’s game, Colin Stephenson pointed out that, “Luis Castillo has left the game with some sort of leg injury.”

Pelfrey sees the handwriting on the wall

Share This

So Mets.com wrote an article stating that no Mets have been voted to the top of their respective positions in the early tabulations of the All-Star ballots.  The funny thing about it was that I was going to discuss it today anyway.  Now, I have some supporting evidence thanks to Marty Noble.

Fans can cast their votes for starters up to 25 times with the Monster 2008 All-Star Game Online Ballot at MLB.com and all 30 club sites until 11:59 p.m. ET. on Wednesday, July 2. Starting rosters will be announced during the 2008 All-Star Game Selection Show presented by Chevrolet on TBS on Sunday, July 6. Baseball fans around the world will then be able to select the final player on each team via the Monster 2008 All-Star Final Vote at MLB.com.

As usual, fans can vote so go out and vote if you haven’t done so already.  Obviously, I encourage you to vote for all of the Mets.

1. First Base - No Mets are currently in the Top 5.
2. Second Base - Luis Castillo is currently 5th in the All-Star ballot.  I have no idea how that happened.
3. Third Base - David Wright is currently 2nd in the All-Star ballot.  Even though Wright is struggling, vote for him over Larry Jones.
4. Shortstop - Jose Reyes is currently 3rd in the All-Star ballot.
5. Catcher - No Mets are currently in the Top 5.
6. Outfield - Carlos Beltran is currently 4th, and Ryan Church is currently 13th in the All-Star ballot.  Church has to make it in the outfield, and he should be ahead of Beltran right now.

If you want to vote for the 2008 All-Star Game, click here.

Mets.com:

Latest injury most disappointing for Alou - Moises Alou had this to say, “I got known as the person who gets injured all the time, and it’s embarrassing getting that label this late in my career.”

Mets starting slowly in All-Star ballots - Marty Noble pointed out that no Mets have been voted to the top of their respective position in the early tabulations.  The All-Star game is what I wanted to talk about today.

Santana puts a stop to Mets’ slide - Marty Noble summarized last night’s game between the Marlins and the Mets.

Wagner only concerned about winning - Jon Blau put together a pregame analysis for tonight’s game between the Marlins and the Mets.

Wise the latest Mets player on the DL - Jon Blau reported that Matt Wise was placed on the 15-day DL because of a right rotator cuff tendinitis.  Carlos Muniz was called up from the Minors to take his place on the roster.

Newsday:

Santana gives Mets much-needed win - Anthony Rieber summarized last night’s Marlins-Mets game.

If Mets don’t win now, they could have long wait

Church sees neurologist, takes night off

Randolph’s mood brightens as job status improves - Anthony Rieber pointed out that,

Randolph joked with reporters before last night’s game against the Marlins. He was particularly comical about a photo on the front page of the New York Post that he said made him “look ugly.”

“You couldn’t find a better picture than that?” he asked. “That was a tired picture. Do I look that bad? It was a big ‘ Moon Mullins’ shot. I looked tired. They made sure my eyes were a little bit closed.”

Marlon, Wise are hurting

Marlins showing they are more than spoilers

Vote of confidence for Mets’ Randolph could be kiss of death

New York Daily News:

To Omar Minaya, racial divide on Mets sounds altogether wrong

Mets surpass Knicks at doctoring attendance figures

Thanks to Johan Santana, Mets and Willie Randolph get much-needed win - Peter Botte wrote up a game summary for last night’s game between the Marlins and the Mets.

Johan Santana aces Mets’ gut check

Ten ways to fix the Mets - Peter Botte provided a list of, “10 things the Mets need to do to save their season and/or Randolph’s job over the final 112 games.”

Ryan Church’s bell is still ringing

Backup plan is a hit - Mark Lelinwallasays, “Maybe Willie Randolph should give his starters the night off more often.”

Tuesday the target for Pedro’s return

Brochure chumps make ‘07 Mets champs - Brendan Brosh found out that, “A tourism brochure, printed for $9,300 by the borough president’s office, hails the Mets as winners last year - when they endured a historic collapse to miss the playoffs.”

New York Post:

SANTANA & SUBS SUBDUE MARLINS

RANDOLPH WARMS UP HIS BENCH

QUEST FOR LEADER LOST IN TRANSLATION

CHURCH MIGHT GO ON THE DL

New York Times:

Santana Provides Relief for Mets - Ben Shpigel summarized last night’s Marlins-Mets game.

Doctors See Danger in Letting Church Play

Delgado Benched as Slump Deepens

The Star-Ledger:

Ryan Church update

Ryan Church fallout

If it ain’t broke, why fix it? - Colin Stephenson provided the lineup for tonight’s Marlins-Mets game.

Shakeup helps Mets get a win

Church told to stay away from Shea - Jeremy Cothran noted that, ”a neurologist ordered the right fielder to stay home.”

Final: Mets 5, Marlins 3 - Jeremy Cothran summarized last night’s game between the Marlins and the Mets.

Share This